Re: [DNSOP] DNS Terminology: Glue

[Paul Hoffman <[e-mail]>]

On Mar 13, 2015, at 11:12 AM, Edward Lewis <[e-mail]> wrote:
> One of my rules about definitions is to start with a positive and not a
> negative statement.

Noted, but the higher-order rule we are using for this document is "quote the RFCs where possible". In fact, this particular thread was caused by us being close to, but not exactly on, the definition from 1034.

> Glue records -- Resource records in a zone falling adhering to some
> specific conditions.  Glue records are address records for name servers
> mentioned in zone cuts in the zone and for names below some (the same one
> another) zone cut in the zone, hence are not authoritative in the zone.
> These records are considered hints of the address of a name server
> included in a referral.  The definition of glue records is arguable
> confusing and unclear, some historical usage applies the term to the name
> server records at a zone cut (in part because these records too are not
> considered authoritative data).

This definition is more inclusive than what is in 1034, and thus (I think) inappropriate. That is, it says "what 1034 said, plus these other things". As this thread has show, there is a desire for the most narrow definition. Given that other RFCs require a consistent view of what is a glue record, widening it at this late date seems ill-advised.

--Paul Hoffman